Early Saturday morning, the United States beat Sweden 6-2 in the semifinals of the IIHF Men's World Hockey Championship, sending the U.S. to the gold medal game for the first time since 1934.
Throughout the tournament, the U.S. have looked like a champion, carrying on the country's dominant style of play from the 4 Nations Face-Off
One player who has definitely left their mark has been forward Frank Nazar with a team leading six goals and six assists good enough for 12 points through nine games.
Blackhawks forward Frank Nazar is making an impact on the international stage.
Frank Nazar showed flashes of some great play this past season with the Hawks. After getting his footing in Rockford, Nazar registered 26 points (12G, 14A) in 53 games with the Hawks.
Nazar finished the year strong, with nine points in the month of April alone, and he has carried his great play with him to Team U.S.A.
The United States is heading to its first final since the countries 3-2 overtime loss to Canada in the 2010 Olympic gold medal game. It will also mark the country's first Men's World Championship game since 1934.
Nazar was named one of the top three best players for Team U.S.A. after the country's win over Sweden—something Blackhawks fans can definitely get excited about.
The Blackhawks have to be excited watching Nazar leave his mark on the international stage. If there was any doubt of Nazar's talent or capability as a top six forward for the Hawks, that is quicklky being put to rest.
Now Chicago just needs to target some free agents that could play alongside him.
Nazar and the United States are heading towards a matchup with either Switzerland or Denmark. The two play a semifinal game this afternoon. The gold medal game will be held on Sunday at 1:10 p.m. CT, airing on NHL Network.
